Touring
Insight Vacations
Insight Vacations offers premium guided tours with a focus on providing luxury travel experiences. Their tours span across Europe, North America, Asia, and more. They emphasize comfortable travel, detailed itineraries, and enriching experiences.
STANDOUT FEATURES
Insightful Experiences: Special events and activities that immerse travelers in local culture.
Luxury Coaches: Premium motorcoaches with extra comfort and space.
Stay in 4- and 5-star hotels: Quality accommodations.
Small Group Sizes: Offers a more personalised experience.
Unique Cultural Experiences: Examples include visiting a private vineyard or enjoying a local performance.
Tauck
Tauck is a high-end travel company known for its upscale escorted tours, river cruises, and small group travel experiences. They offer a blend of luxury and exploration in destinations all over the world.
STANDOUT FEATURES
All-Inclusive: Most Tauck tours cover almost everything, from hotels to meals and excursions.
Expert Tour Directors: Knowledgeable guides who offer rich insights into the destinations.
Cultural Immersion: Focus on authentic experiences like private visits and behind-the-scenes tours.
Unique Itineraries: Offers exclusive access to landmarks and events not typically available to regular tourists.
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid specialises in small group adventures with a focus on sustainable travel. They offer tours for a wide variety of interests, including cultural, wildlife, trekking, and more.
STANDOUT FEATURES
Small Group Travel: Limited to 16 people to create a more intimate experience.
Responsible Travel: Emphasis on sustainable tourism and supporting local communities.
Adventure-Focused: Offers more active and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Flexibility: Their "Urban Adventures" and range of experiences allow for a personalized approach to exploring.
Trafalgar
Trafalgar offers guided vacations with a focus on providing “insider” experiences that let travelers explore destinations with local insight. They offer tours to Europe, North America, Africa, Asia, and more.
STANDOUT FEATURES
Be My Guest: Local dining experiences where guests are invited to enjoy meals at locals' homes or at unique venues.
Hidden Treasures: Offers tours to lesser-known places along with popular destinations.
Travel Director Expertise: Trafalgar’s guides are well-known for their knowledge and storytelling.
Effortless Travel: Full-service travel where all the details are taken care of, from transport to accommodation.
Globus
Globus offers escorted tours that cater to travelers looking for well-planned, yet flexible itineraries. They serve destinations worldwide and provide a variety of tours from classic sightseeing to niche, themed experiences.
STANDOUT FEATURES
Freedom of Choice: Gives travelers options for excursions, allowing customization of their travel experience.
Local Guides: Guides are typically local, offering authentic insights into the destinations.
Variety of Trip Styles: Offers everything from luxury to budget options, including river cruises and small-group tours.
Multiple Destinations: Has an extensive portfolio of global destinations, with special attention to hidden gems.
Contiki
Contiki caters specifically to travelers aged 18-35, offering tours that blend adventure, culture, and social experiences. They focus heavily on younger travelers looking for an active, social, and fun atmosphere.
STANDOUT FEATURES
Age Group: Tours exclusively for 18-35-year-olds.
Social & Active: Group trips where participants can socialize, party, and meet other young travelers.
Vibrant Experiences: Offers a mix of adventure, exploration, and cultural activities, with a focus on experiences like nightlife, hiking, and sightseeing.
Shorter Tours: Ideal for younger travelers with limited vacation time, offering a lot of experiences in a short period.
Recommended Touring Companies
Each of these companies offers unique characteristics, ranging from luxury and inclusivity (Tauck and Insight Vacations) to adventure-focused and sustainable travel (Intrepid), as well as catering to younger travelers (Contiki). It all depends on what kind of experience you're looking for in your travel adventure!
Frequently asked questions about touring
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What is included in the price of a cruise?Cruise prices typically cover accommodation, meals, entertainment, and certain activities. However, some services, like excursions, specialty dining, gratuities, and drinks packages, may come with an additional cost.
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Do I need a passport for a cruise?It depends on the cruise itinerary. For most international cruises, a passport is required. For some closed-loop cruises (those that begin and end at the same U.S. port), you may be able to travel with just a birth certificate and government-issued ID.
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What should I pack for a cruise?Essential items include casual clothing, formal attire (for formal nights), swimwear, sunscreen, shoes, and any necessary medications. Packing requirements may vary depending on the cruise line and destination.
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What is the dress code on board?Essential items include casual clothing, formal attire (for formal nights), swimwear, sunscreen, shoes, and any necessary medications. Packing requirements may vary depending on the cruise line and destination.
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How much do drinks cost on a cruise?Drinks are typically not included in the base fare unless you're on a package deal. On average, alcoholic beverages can range from $5 to $15 each, and soda packages are available for a set fee.
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Are cruises family-friendly?Many cruise lines offer family-friendly amenities, including kids’ clubs, family excursions, water parks, and family-friendly entertainment. Each cruise line varies, so it’s important to check if a particular cruise fits your family’s needs.
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How do I book excursions?Shore excursions can be booked directly through the cruise line, both in advance before the trip or while on board. Independent operators or third-party providers can also offer excursions, but booking through the cruise line offers added security in case of delays.
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What happens if I miss the ship in port?If you miss the ship during a port stop, the cruise line will usually provide guidance on how to rejoin the ship at the next port of call, though this may involve additional costs. It’s important to always check the ship’s departure time and plan to return early.
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Can I use my phone and the internet on a cruise?Cruise ships generally have Wi-Fi, but it can be expensive and slower compared to land-based connections. International roaming may apply for calls and texts, so checking with your phone provider beforehand is advisable.
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What should I do if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?Most cruise lines can accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies with advance notice. It’s recommended to inform the cruise line before departure and speak with the restaurant staff upon boarding.